More information : TL 86664616 Melford Hall (NR) (1)
Melford Hall, a moated brick mansion built in 1559 with
additions in the 18th and 19th centuries. Grade 1. The large
quadrangular moat is imperfect, but within it, on the north
side, is an earthen bank of considerable width. (2-3)
TL 86664618. Melford Hall, Name confirmed, is National Trust
property in good condition.
The Hall and Garden are enclosed by the remains of a large
rectangular moat measuring 270.0m north-south by 160.0m The
east arm is filled but can be traced as a very shallow
depression at its northern end. The north arm is dry, 18.0m wide
and 2.3m deep, with a large inner retaining bank 1.0m high. The
west arm, 7.0m wide is water filled by surface drainage and
has an outer retaining bank rising from ground level at the
north to 2.5m at the south. The south arm 10.0m wide, has an
outer retaining bank 1.5m high and is waterfilled by a small
stream.(the Chad Brook) This arm serves a secondary function as
a mill race.
Two large ponds within the moat are ornamental fish and boating
waters.
The occupier, who was the previous owner, (a) stated the house
to be built on a virgin site in the 16th century. An estate
map of 1630, kept at the hall, shows the house completely moated
with a gate house at TL 86724618.
It seems probable that the entire moat is ornamental, constructed
at the same time as the house.
Published 1:2500 survey revised. (4)
Grade II* garden. (5) |